Spend a wanton afternoon at MGM Grand’s Wet Republic

Looking for a hot place to chill this summer? Without a doubt the trendiest daylife scene in Las Vegas is at Wet Republic. Part of MGM Grand’s pool area, but discreetly tucked away beside the resort’s conference center, it caters to the young and affluent as well as to the celebrity crowd. Who can forget when both Prince Harry and J-Lo were spotted there one scorching Sunday afternoon last August?

Wet Republic at MGM Grand offers one of the best pool parties in Las Vegas (photo courtesy of Angel Management Group)

This year, thanks to a renovated DJ booth with a gigantic new tricked-out LED display screen, Wet Republic is playing host to the top DJ talent around. Australian DJ and producer Tommy Trash (aka Thomas Olsen) kicked off the pool club’s 2013 season in mid April. And he’s not the only one who has appeared behind the turntables. During the past two weekends, EDM superstars Steve Aoki, Tiësto and Calvin Harris have all spun tunes poolside.

Apart from the top-notch music, what exactly is so appealing about this 53,000-square-foot outdoor hotspot?

First of all, Wet Republic boasts two large saltwater pools, three intimate dipping pools and six cascading waterfalls. Then, there’s the gorgeous poolscape, which often gets lost amid all the beautiful bodies in bikinis! Sculptured horticulture (ranging from palm trees to potted plants and flower boxes) has been strategically placed.

Sunbathers will discover oversized cream chaise lounges throughout the deck, with a handful of lime green ones dotting the shallow rim of the main pool. There are also numerous daybeds with brightly colored pillows, a variety of cabanas and six VIP bungalows. The cabanas are swathed in a canvas-like fabric and house sofas, an ottoman, a ceiling fan, a mini fridge and a giant flat-screen TV with a Blu-ray disc player. The bungalows offer similar amenities but have upped the luxury factor in terms of furnishings and finishes. Plus, they provide privacy from the crowds, thanks to security-guarded access points.

DJ Steve Aoki revs up the party during a recent appearance at Wet Republic (photo courtesy of Al Powers/Powers Imagery LLC)

A lot of attention has been paid to detail at Wet Republic for all guests. In fact, several banks of lockers were recently installed. They are situated adjacent to a hub of activity – the expanded open-air lounge with a nearly 100-foot-long marble-topped bar. It’s loaded with premium liquors and multiple frozen drink machines that dispense piña coladas, strawberry daiquiris and pink lemonade.

As you would expect, the libations at Wet Republic are fantastic. Bottle and pitcher service can be enjoyed in the lounge or ordered poolside. One not-to-miss custom cocktail is the Wet Tea Shirt. Made with Seagram’s Sweet Tea vodka and fresh lemonade, it truly has a refreshing taste.

In addition, Wet Republic features a lineup of “Skinny Cocktails” for those who are worrying about their weight. For example, the Skinny Dip is crafted from Absolut Grapevine vodka, Minute Maid Light Lemonade, sugar-free strawberry syrup and soda water. Other favorites include the Skinny Mojito and the Beach Body. Since each one contains under 150 calories, you can indulge in as many as you want guilt-free.

One of six lavish VIP bungalows at Wet Republic (photo courtesy of MGM Resorts International)

Unique and delicious foods complement the drink menu. Among the munchies are chips and salsa, a hummus dip with pine nuts and olive oil, quesadillas and soft tacos. Two good choices for hearty appetites are the griddled turkey and Swiss sandwich served on flatbread and the Angus beef and cheddar melt. And who can resist a chocolate chip ice cream sandwich for dessert?

Few pool clubs in Las Vegas have all of these ingredients for a super sexy summer afternoon. Indeed, since its debut in 2008, Wet Republic has brought a high dose of glamorous nightclub style to its pool scene. The sultry-meets-social vibe is hard to match, and the friendly staff makes sure everyone’s time here is memorable.

Wet Republic is open Thursdays through Mondays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. All patrons must be at least 21 years old. A private valet is available off Tropicana Avenue and Koval Lane. General admission starts at $10 for women and $20 for men (note: prices are higher on weekends and for special events). To make reservations for chaise lounges, cabanas or bungalows, call (702) 891-3715.

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I’m a Las Vegas native. By profession, I write at Vegas.com. Mostly about the city’s hotels, but on other topics – gaming and transportation – too. I really love staying at hotels. And the ones here are among the biggest and best in the world. Some key things I’ve learned: Resort fees are inescapable (frustrating but true), a friendly attitude at the front desk may score you a great view and over-the-top room amenities – bath butlers, Japanese tea service, menus with “intimate” items – do exist. What else should you know about me? Well, I’m comfortable at a blackjack table. And I like eating late-night pancakes in hotel coffee shops. A lot. Follow Renee on Google+.